+1I have a few J-frame revolvers, a few K-frames, a few of this and that.
And one Shield in 9mm.
In winter, I usually carry the Shield, sometimes a J-frame, sometimes a K-frame.
In summer, I pocket carry an LCP, sometimes the Shield, sometimes a J-frame.
The Shield is much easier to carry, especially IWB. It's easy to shoot, at least as easy as a J-frame.
As for Buds, I've purchased from them few times. No problems, easy transactions.
Then by all means, get one. But I wouldn't be in any hurry to get rid of the J frame. And I would, for sure, get it fixed. I haven't carried my J frame in a long time, but you just never know.Main reason I wanted to ditch it was the shield seems a lot better to conceal and more comfortable.
I only paid $225 for it so I wont be getting rid of it and I CC a lot so I would need something to back it up while the J frame is at S&W.Then by all means, get one. But I wouldn't be in any hurry to get rid of the J frame. And I would, for sure, get it fixed. I haven't carried my J frame in a long time, but you just never know.
I can I have friends who have the performance, gen 1 and 2.Can you shoot one before buying? I made more or less that exact trade, a 442 for a S&W Shield, and I regret it.
My 442 disappeared in a pocket. The Shield is not a pocket gun. I cant shoot the Shield worth a crap. Being used to Glock triggers, I don't care for the S&W trigger nor do I care to learn it.
I picked up a Ruger LC9S Pro that I shoot better than the shield. It has longer heavier DA revolver-esque trigger that somehow works for me. It also is a little large for a pocket gun.
I'm hoping to even trade the Shield either on another J Frame or a side by side 12 gauge to use for cowboy action.
At first reloads were the issue so I switched primers and it went away for a few more rounds and then I ran gold dots and still FTF.If you don't know how to do it take your J to a GS and let him do a thorough cleaning especially the firing pin hole to make sure its not clogged by lint. A common problem with a pocket gun.
Make sure you are using quality ammo and not any steel cased stuff with extra hard primers. I bet that will repair your gun.
I have never shot a Shield but I did help a bud put new sights on his. Nice little gun but I wouldn't trade my 442 for one.